2025.04.07

What is exorcism from the perspective of modern exorcism and history

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The word exorcism can sound mysterious and sometimes frightening to us. In general, exorcism is defined as the act of removing spiritual beings, especially "evil spirits" and evil spirits that have a negative influence, and restoring the physical and mental health, luck, and overall balance of the subject's life.

This practice can be done through the use of religious rituals, spiritual methods, and even psychological approaches, and may even involve adjusting the subject's surroundings and relationships.

Exorcism is not just about getting rid of spiritual beings that have a negative impact, but also about solving the underlying problem so that it does not possess again.

Article Contents

Exorcism ~ Spiritual Purification and Healing Quest
- Exorcism practices rooted in history and culture

Exorcism ~ Spiritual Purification and Healing Quest

There are two aspects of exorcism: "exorcism" and "purification." "Exorcism" refers to the process of physically or forcibly eliminating evil spirits.

On the other hand, "Pure Spirit" aims to persuade evil spirits or purify the soul so that the spirit can reach a state of peace. In other words, it aims to heal not only the subject, but also the spirit itself. For example, if exorcism can be likened to a "battle" by force, then it can be said that pure spirits have properties similar to peaceful "reconciliation." In many cultures and regions around the world, these two approaches have been used differently depending on the situation and need.

Exorcism practices rooted in history and culture

It is no exaggeration to say that the practice of exorcism has walked along with the history of mankind. Exorcism has been practiced in various cultures and religions around the world since ancient times, each developing its own interpretation and ritual form. These rituals are not just superstitions or occult sorts, but have played an important role in supporting people's mental health and social stability.

History of exorcism in Japan ~ Fusion of exorcism tradition and Buddhism

The history of exorcism in Japan is deeply rooted in Shinto "exorcism" rituals. This exorcism is a traditional ritual to remove spiritual impurities, and has been aimed not only at warding off evil spirits, but also in purifying people's hearts and bringing peace.

Exorcisms performed by the priests of shrines and rituals to exorcise impurities during festivals are typical examples. In addition, after Buddhism was introduced to Japan, Buddhist exorcism rituals such as "blessing prayer" and "goma offering" also spread.

These rituals have been deeply rooted as an important means of resolving various problems that people have from a spiritual point of view. The reading of sutras in temples and the ceremony of lighting a flame on the altar are powerful symbols of this.

Practice of exorcism spreading around the world ~ Diverse approaches

When we look at the world, we see the practice of exorcism in even more diverse forms. For example, the Catholic Church is famous for its exorcism ritual called "exorcism". It is intended to eliminate the presence of demons and evil spirits,

It is performed by specially trained exorcists. It is particularly active in European countries such as Italy and Spain, and it is depicted in documentaries and movies.

In some parts of Africa and Asia, rituals based on shamanic traditions are still practiced. Shamans communicate with the spirit world and attempt to solve spiritual problems through sorcery and divination. These rituals are deeply rooted in their respective cultures and historical backgrounds, and each region has its own unique form.

The Significance of Exorcism in Modern Society ~ The Intersection of Science and Religion

Even in today's highly developed science and technology, the practice of exorcism continues to be of great significance to many people.

As long as there are phenomena and symptoms that cannot be explained by medicine or science, people sometimes seek help from traditional religious treatments.

Exorcism is not limited to simply removing "spirits", but is performed in the hope of regaining mental and physical stability and positively changing the situation surrounding you.

The Current Situation of Exorcism in Modern Japan ~ Responding to Diverse Needs

In Japan, for example, Kenmi Shrine in Tokushima Prefecture is known as a place visited by people suffering from certain spiritual problems, such as "dog god possession".

There are many stories of mental disorders and physical symptoms that could not be solved by medical treatment, but were released by unique rituals and prayers here.

In addition, exorcism at shrines and temples has permeated people's lives in a more general form, and many people visit it for the purpose of purifying the mind and body and warding off evil.

In addition, self-exorcism (purification through ventilation, cleaning, and visiting graves), which is attempted on an individual level, is also becoming increasingly popular among modern people. These behaviors are widely accepted as spiritual care that can be easily performed in everyday life.

The relationship between religious medicine and exorcism ~ Religion as a foundation of the heart

Looking at the world, exorcists, centered on the Catholic Church, play a certain role in modern society.

Behind this is the idea that problems such as spiritual confusion and the decline of faith in today's diversified society are affected.

There have been reports of people reaffirming their faith and finding a place in their hearts by participating in exorcism ceremonies.

Scientific Perspectives on Exorcism ~ Knowledge of Psychology, Brain Science, and Cultural Anthropology

The act of exorcism itself is mainly based on spiritual interpretation, but in recent years, various studies have been conducted from scientific fields such as psychology, psychiatry, and even cultural anthropology on how exorcism occurs and how it affects people.

A multifaceted approach is being attempted to explain how people's "spiritual experiences" manifest themselves.

Psychology and Psychiatry ~ Stress, Trauma, and Autosuggestion

From a psychological point of view, exorcism and possession sensations are often explained as a result of stress, trauma, sleep deprivation, or illness (for example, hallucinations or dissociative disorders).

In addition, due to the influence of autosuggestion and group psychology, feelings of anxiety and fear may be embodied as "spiritual beings." It is believed that these psychological factors are intricately intertwined to cause spiritual experiences.

Neuroscientific Investigation ~ Brain Activity and Supernatural Sensations

Some neuroscientists point out that overactivity of certain parts of the brain can cause "supernatural sensations."

In particular, it has been studied that malfunctions in the parts of the brain that control emotions and sensations, such as the temporal lobe and amygdala, may create a "sensation" of ghosts and abnormal phenomena. These studies are an attempt to elucidate spiritual experiences from a neuroscientific perspective.

The Influence of Cultural Elements ~ The Close Relationship between Culture and Exorcism

Scientists note that exorcism is deeply dependent on a particular cultural or religious background and takes different forms.

For example, the psychological effects of performing exorcisms at shrines in Japan and the impact of exorcism rituals on patients in Europe are deeply rooted in their respective historical and cultural contexts.

These studies suggest that exorcism is not just a personal phenomenon, but a social phenomenon that is formed within a cultural context.

Summary ~ The essence of exorcism and its role in modern society

Exorcism should not be dismissed as a mere superstition or an ancient relic. Exorcism is one of the important practices that has been passed down since ancient times to help people regain their spiritual well-being and balance in their lives.

Its history and culture are diverse, and at the same time, new interpretations are emerging by intersecting with the progress of modern science.

It can be said that the essence of exorcism lies in the reconstruction of the relationship between people, society, and the environment, beyond the relationship with spiritual beings. For this reason, it is thought that the role of exorcism will not lose its importance in people's hearts even in the future, even though it will change.

Exorcism is a complex phenomenon that needs to be understood not only from a spiritual perspective, but also from a psychological and social perspective, and research will continue to deepen its understanding in the future.

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